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University of Karachi Observes World Food Day 2025

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The Department of Food Science & Technology at the University of Karachi organized a seminar on Thursday to commemorate World Food Day 2025.


The event was held to raise awareness about the global challenges of hunger, food insecurity, and the importance of sustainable food systems in ensuring a healthy future for all.

Faculty members, students, and guests from academia and the food industry attended the event. The speakers highlighted that World Food Day serves as an important reminder to adopt responsible consumption habits, reduce food waste, and promote sustainable agricultural and food processing practices.

Addressing the participants, the faculty emphasized that Pakistan, being an agriculture-based country, has immense potential to strengthen its food system through innovation, research, and modern technology. They also stressed the role of youth and researchers in developing new methods to improve food preservation, enhance nutritional value, and ensure food safety standards.

The seminar provided an opportunity for students to engage in discussions on global and national food issues. Participants shared their views on how climate change, population growth, and water scarcity are impacting food production and access.

World Food Day is observed annually on October 16 to commemorate the founding of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. The University of Karachi’s Department of Food Science & Technology continues to play a key role in promoting education, research, and awareness on issues related to food quality, safety, and sustainability.

The event concluded with a note of appreciation for the organizers and participants, reaffirming the department’s commitment to advancing food science education and contributing to a food-secure and sustainable Pakistan.

Karachi’s Air Pollution: The City That Can’t Breathe

Smog and traffic pollution covering Karachi’s skyline.

Pakistan’s largest city and economic hub — has become one of the most polluted cities globally.
According to The Nation (Mar 4, 2025), Karachi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) reached 179, categorized as “unhealthy.” At times in 2023, the AQI exceeded 200, ranking the city 9th most polluted in the world.

Main Causes

  • Vehicular emissions: Over 4 million vehicles on Karachi’s roads run on low-quality fuel.
  • Industrial smoke: Factories release toxic gases without emission control systems.
  • Garbage burning: According to The News (Dec 2023), open burning contributes over 30% of airborne particulate matter.
  • Construction dust: Continuous urban expansion adds high levels of PM2.5 pollutants.

Health Impacts

The News International (Feb 2024) found that Karachi’s PM2.5 levels are 25.8 times higher than WHO’s safe limit, increasing cases of asthma, lung infections, and heart disease.

Policy Gaps

Despite these dangers, environmental laws are weakly enforced. As The Nation (Mar 2024) noted, Karachi ranks among the top 10 most polluted cities worldwide, yet lacks a comprehensive clean air policy.

Way Forward

  • Promote electric buses and hybrid vehicles.
  • Enforce industrial emission standards.
  • Expand urban green belts and forests.
  • Launch public awareness campaigns on clean air.

Conclusion

Karachi’s air pollution crisis endangers millions. Without strict regulation and long-term strategy, the city’s environment — and public health — will continue to deteriorate.